Missing My Man

I've been wanting to do something with my front yard for a lonnnnnngggggggg time.  I want to create a Japenese type rock and sand garden around the big oak and the crappy little garden that surrounds the mailbox.  Nothing wants to grow in the soil around the mailbox, and the front grass area around the tree is sparse---so I say it's time to kill the grass and put in some rock, sand, and maybe a little cement bridge.
All peaceful and serene looking.  That's what is in my head---just don't know how to put it into reality.

So I've been perusing Japenese Rock Garden pictures on the web.  I get all excited about the possibilities, but I know there will be a lot of hauling of rock etc.  That's where Wayne comes in---but for some reason he is not to be found when I'm in the throes of my rock garden passion!!  (Generally, he's not to be found any time I get out the honey-do list!)  If he would only love what I love, our yard would look MAGNIFICENT!

So here are a couple of pics that inspire me with ideas:

So tell me what you think......And remember, my plan will be very simple--nothing as elaborate as some of these pictures.

P.S.  I still can't find Wayne---where is that MAN!!!!